The Fidelis Care Blog

The Asian American Cultural Alliance, Inc. (AACA) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting cultural exchange, uplifting immigrant voices, and building bridges through community engagement. I launched AACA alongside two co-founders: Yang Qu, who leads our efforts in mental health awareness, and Yi Li, a dance studio owner who brought creative energy to the organization’s early vision. Together, we created a space where cultural heritage and community well-being are inextricably linked.

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Each year, more people are diagnosed with skin cancer than with any other type of cancer. There are three types of skin cancer: basal cell, squamous cell, and melanoma. They all require medical attention, but melanoma is the most serious as it is most likely to spread to other parts of the body.

National Nurses Week, May 6 through 12, is a time to recognize the compassion and dedication provided by these healthcare professionals every day. In observance of the week, we checked in with Fidelis Care nurses Shay Dege, Matthew Garbutt, Kelsey Maslowski, Sherry MacQueen, and Dawn Pankey on why they chose the profession and what it means to them.

May is Healthy Vision Month. This is a great opportunity to learn how to keep your eyes healthy and safe. The National Eye Institute encourages you to: • Get an eye exam. This is the best way to check your vision and know if your eyes are healthy. Talk to your eye doctor about how often you should have one. • Live a healthy lifestyle. Maintain a healthy weight and eat foods like fish and dark leafy green vegetables to lower your risk of eye disease. Don't smoke. Smoking is as bad for your eyes as it is for the rest of your body.

May is Arthritis Awareness Month. It’s a time to spread awareness about the millions of people living with arthritis and share resources for help managing this chronic condition. At Fidelis Care, we’re committed to helping our members navigate their health with confidence, and that includes supporting those affected by arthritis.

Timely follow-up care after a mental health discharge is a vital component of recovery. Clinical guidelines recommend that individuals discharged from an emergency department (ED) or inpatient setting receive a follow-up visit within seven (7) days.

Substance use disorder (SUD) affects many people. It can happen in any family, workplace, or neighborhood. At Fidelis Care, we believe alcohol or drug addiction is not a personal failure. We also know that people need help, not judgment. Why Prevention Matters Addiction often starts quietly. It can begin with stress, trauma, or mental health problems that aren’t treated. That’s why we focus on stopping addiction before it starts. We look for warning signs early. We help people get care that respects their culture and background. We also build support systems with family, friends, and the community

Fidelis Care will host three Provider Office Hours in October 2025. During the webinars, Fidelis Care staff will be available to share information, provide an overview of provider resources, and answer your questions.

October is Health Literacy Month. It’s a great time to learn how to understand and use health information. Being health literate means you can find, understand, and use information to make good decisions about your health. It can help you: • Read medication labels • Pick a health plan • Ask your doctor questions

The following sections of the Fidelis Care authorization grids have been updated effective October 1, 2025.